Full Notification

The downtown rally is coming to a conclusion. Berkeley Police are committed to providing for the safety and security of the general public, while both monitoring and facilitating any peaceful demonstration. Berkeley Police constantly worked to quickly identify and/or arrest those specifically involved in criminal activity or violence. Community members’ rights are of the utmost importance and our goal is to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.

Every attempt was made to intercede during acts of violence or rapidly identify victims and suspects. Where victims came forward and provided information, we were more readily able to make arrests.

At this time we have made 10 arrests including five for battery, four for assault with a deadly weapon (including one with possession of a dagger) and one for resisting arrest.

In several cases, individuals fighting each other declined police assistance. Because of the nature of the crowd, police are not always able to make immediate arrests without inciting further violence or injuring peaceful bystanders. Police work to document and identify suspects and arrest them at the first available time.  Sometimes that’s during the event.  Sometimes, that’s in the days that follow. The community can assist with this by reporting crimes and offering assistance in identifying or locating suspects.

We offered medical assistance to anyone who was injured. There were seven people who were evaluated for medical injuries, but none needed nor wanted to go to the hospital.

Berkeley Police actively worked to prevent violence before it occurred. Among the items confiscated today were metal pipes, bats, “2x4s”, and pieces of wood. A group  with bricks was detained, and their bricks confiscated.

We’re continuing our investigations and asking any victims of crimes to come forward. We will be looking for assistance from the community in identifying those responsible.